Imagine a dish so comforting and flavorful that it feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice delivers exactly that—tender chicken bites infused with aromatic spices, nestled in a creamy Parmesan-infused rice that’s perfectly cooked to fluffy perfection. With the addition of thyme, oregano, and peas, every bite brings together richness and freshness in perfect harmony.
This one-skillet wonder is more than just an easy dinner—it’s a meal that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. The best part? Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this dish is bound to become a new go-to favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and oregano. Stir well.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the peas and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
History & Origin of the Dish
The combination of chicken, rice, and a creamy sauce is a well-loved staple across many cuisines. Inspired by classic comfort foods like Chicken Risotto and Chicken Alfredo, this dish takes the creamy, cheesy elements of traditional Italian cuisine and combines them with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. Parmesan cheese has been a staple in European cooking for centuries, known for its nutty and umami-rich flavor that enhances both pasta and rice dishes. The one-pan cooking method simplifies preparation and cleanup, making this meal a favorite for busy home cooks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Cooking: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup!
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich & Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and broth creates a luxurious sauce.
- Customizable: You can add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for more nutrition.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Side Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of this dish.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or green beans make a great side.
- A Glass of Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions
- Chicken Breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and tender. Swap with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Olive Oil: Helps brown the chicken and add flavor. Substitute with butter for a richer taste.
- Long-Grain White Rice: Absorbs the creamy sauce well. For a healthier option, use brown rice (increase cooking time).
- Chicken Broth: Enhances the depth of flavor. Swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a luscious texture. Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient! Freshly grated works best for a smooth, melty texture. You can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste.
- Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Thyme, Oregano: Essential seasonings that add warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust or add basil, parsley, or Italian seasoning.
- Frozen Peas: Add a pop of color and sweetness. Substitute with broccoli, spinach, or asparagus for variety.
- Parsley: Fresh garnish for a burst of freshness. Try basil or chives for a different flavor.
Expert Cooking Tips
🔥 Sear the Chicken First: This locks in moisture and builds flavor before adding the rice.
🍚 Toast the Rice: Lightly sautéing the rice before adding liquids enhances the nutty flavor.
🧀 Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-packaged Parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese.
👩🍳 Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure proper browning.
🥣 Adjust Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of warm broth or cream to loosen it.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Side Salad: A light Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition.
- A Glass of Wine: Pair with Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a complementary touch.
Variations & Customizations
🥓 Bacon Lovers’ Version: Add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
🌶️ Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
🍄 Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with the rice for an earthy twist.
🍋 Lemon Parmesan Twist: Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
🌿 Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or rosemary for a unique aromatic touch.
🥦 Veggie Boost: Mix in spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients.
Storage & Meal Prep
🛑 Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating: Warm over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
❄️ Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy content, which may cause separation.
🍱 Make-Ahead: Cook the chicken in advance and store it separately, then assemble the dish fresh when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use instant rice?
A: Yes, but you’ll need less liquid and a shorter cooking time. Adjust accordingly.
Q: What other cheeses work for this recipe?
A: Try Gruyère, Asiago, or White Cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Q: Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes! Sauté the chicken first, add the rice and liquids, and pressure cook for 6 minutes with a 5-minute natural release.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken & Rice is a foolproof meal that delivers comfort, flavor, and convenience in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply looking for a new recipe to try, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The creamy Parmesan sauce combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice creates a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.